Media Release

Officer John J. Weber has been named the Hawaii Police Department’s 2007 "Officer of the Year" by the Hawaii State Law Enforcement Officials Association (HSLEOA).

Weber received the award at a banquet at the Hilton Kauai Beach Resort the evening of September 14.

Weber, who is assigned to the East Hawaii Vice Section, initiated 393 cases during Fiscal Year 2006-2007, arrested 87 suspects and charged them with 355 offenses. The cases were primarily generated by search warrants that he drafted. During the fiscal year, Weber served 46 search warrants.

Lieutenant Samuel Jelsma, who nominated Weber, said Weber built "quality investigative cases" that targeted drug growers and dealers rather then just users.

Although Weber’s Vice Section assignment was to the Marijuana Task Force, he also made cases targeting an operational methamphetamine conversion laboratory, an established “black tar” heroin dealer, and cocaine and methamphetamine dealers. His warrants led to the seizure of large quantities of marijuana, crystal methamphetamine, "black tar" heroin, cocaine and LSD, as well as 46 firearms and $526,147 in assets for forfeiture.

"What is most impressive about his accomplishments during this past fiscal year is that he has only held his vice assignment for a year and a half," said Chief Lawrence Mahuna. "He truly demonstrates our department’s Vision Statement to provide the highest quality police service, making the Big Island a safe place to live, visit and conduct business."